The Benefits and Side Effects of Colon Cleansing

Colon cleansing has become remarkably popular over the past few years, and with good reason. While you may have heard that sudden and rapid weight loss is a major benefit of colon cleansing, you will actually find that there are a great number of additional benefits that may even outweigh the weight loss. In this article we'll explore some of the benefits of colon cleansing, and possible side effects that may occur.

What are some of the benefits I can expect after a colon cleanse?

The principal idea behind colon cleansing is to rid the body of toxins that are collecting due to our Western-style diet and eating habits. With that being said, one of the first things you will notice as you finish your cleanse is a feeling that your body is in better condition.

You will very likely lose weight during your cleanse. How much weight you lose will depend on you as an individual; some people lose a great deal of weight, and others may not lose any at all. Generally speaking, it is normal to lose anywhere from 5 to 10 pounds over the length of a cleanse.

You will notice that your skin tone and feeling improves, and you will be able to think more clearly. You will have more energy and feel more alert — if you're the type that has a "crash" around 1-3pm each day, you may notice that your afternoon lethargy decreases. Many have reported increased libido and sexual stamina after completing a cleanse, and if you're into sports or other active pursuits you will benefit as well.

What are some of the possible side effects I might experience?

Like any natural health remedy or medication, colon cleansing has the potential for minor side effects which vary based on the individual. Some of the possible side effects include:

-nausea which may be accompanied by fever
-headaches or migraines
-aching or pain
-exhaustion

If you encounter any side effects, they will usually clear up quickly and you may or may not need to stop the cleanse. If you feel that your side effects are serious, stop the cleanse and seek out the advice of a doctor or other medical professional.

Don't forget to ensure that you are well hydrated; keeping your water intake high will aid the cleanse and help prevent the side effects that will accompany dehydration.

How can I best avoid the side effects of colon cleansing?

As with anything, the key to avoiding side effects is by cleansing in moderation. If you engage in any method of colon cleansing too frequently without giving your body time to recover, you may end up damaging your colon. You can also reduce your colon's effectiveness by cleansing too often as the beneficial bacteria and flora will be repeatedly washed away. This will negatively impact your body's natural functions, and also your immune system. Follow the guidelines or instructions that you receive with your colon cleansing product and be sure to use it properly.